I-Day function: Over 7,000 security personnel at Red Fort

An additional 2,000 paramilitary personnel besides over 5,000 policemen will keep vigil during this year’s Independence Day celebration at the Red Fort owing to the threat perception to Prime Minister Narendra Modi who will unfurl the Tricolour Friday.

“Ahead of the Independence Day, the threat perception to the prime minister and other leaders has increased. The security has been beefed up,” a police officer, requesting anonymity, told IANS.

Modi is under the constant protection of about a 1,000 Special Protection Group (SPG) commandos while the Delhi Police personnel are responsible for guarding the outer periphery.

At the Red Fort, over 200 closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras have been installed while about 500 have been installed on all routes leading to the venue.

In addition, paramilitary personnel will keep a special watch and stand guard at every road intersection to be used by the dignitaries to reach the Red Fort.

“Some roads around the venue will remain closed from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. for the general public,” said the officer.

About 15 sentry posts with armed security personnel will ensure the security of the fort, while some policemen with binoculars will be deployed at high rises.

“The residents living around the venue have been asked to keep their windows shut till the function is over,” said the officer.

A total of 40 mounted police will keep a tab on any suspicious activity or people on the ground.

All borders with neighbouring states will be sealed for heavy vehicles and only personal cars will be allowed to enter from Thursday midnight, said the officer.

Meanwhile, bomb detection and quick response teams, dog squads and officials of the Delhi Fire Service will remain on high alert.